On May 27, 2012, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) clinched their first-ever Indian Premier League (IPL) title, defeating the defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by five wickets. This victory marked a significant milestone in IPL history and was a testament to KKR’s determination and skill.

The Road to the Final

KKR’s journey through the 2012 IPL season was marked by strategic gameplay and consistent performances. Under the leadership of Gautam Gambhir, KKR overcame numerous challenges and emerged as strong contenders for the title. Key matches, such as their victories against the Mumbai Indians and Delhi Daredevils, were turning points that highlighted their resilience and tactical prowess.

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Final Match Overview

The IPL 2012 final was held at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The stage was set for an epic clash between KKR and CSK, the defending champions known for their formidable lineup and previous successes in the tournament.

Chennai Super Kings’ Innings

Winning the toss, CSK captain MS Dhoni decided to bat first, a move that initially seemed advantageous. The opening pair, Michael Hussey and Murali Vijay, gave CSK a flying start, setting a solid foundation for a big total.

Hussey and Vijay stitched together a formidable partnership of 87 runs. Vijay contributed 42 runs before being dismissed by Rajat Bhatia, providing CSK with a significant advantage early in the innings.

Suresh Raina joined Hussey and continued the momentum with a brilliant knock. Hussey, on the other hand, breached the 50-run mark, and together, they forged a partnership of 73 off 41 balls, pushing the score further.

Hussey eventually fell for 54 and was dismissed by Jacques Kallis. Raina’s 73 was crucial in propelling CSK to a daunting total of 190. MS Dhoni chipped in with an unbeaten cameo of 14 off nine balls, ensuring CSK ended their innings on a high. For KKR, Bhatia, Kallis, and Shakib Al Hasan each claimed a wicket, helping to restrict CSK from crossing the 200-run mark.

Kolkata Knight Riders’ Chase

KKR’s run chase got off to a shaky start, losing their captain Gautam Gambhir for just two runs in the first over. This early setback could have derailed their chase, but KKR found heroes in Manvinder Bisla and Jacques Kallis.

Bisla played one of the most memorable knocks in IPL finals history. His 89 off 48 balls was a blend of aggression and composure, featuring eight fours and five sixes. Bisla’s ability to handle the pressure and score at a brisk pace was instrumental in KKR’s chase.

Kallis provided the stability needed after the early loss of Gambhir. His partnership of 136 runs with Bisla was the backbone of KKR’s innings. Kallis scored a crucial 69 runs, playing a steady hand that complemented Bisla’s aggressiveness.

The final over saw KKR need nine runs to clinch the title. Manoj Tiwary stepped up, hitting two consecutive boundaries to seal the victory with two balls to spare. Tiwary’s calmness under pressure ensured KKR crossed the finish line in a dramatic fashion.

Celebrations and reactions

The victory sparked jubilant celebrations among KKR players, support staff, and fans. The team lifted the trophy with pride, and the victory lap at the MA Chidambaram Stadium was filled with emotion and joy. Reactions poured in from cricketing legends, former players, and fans worldwide, acknowledging KKR’s brilliant performance.

Player of the Match

Manvinder Bisla was rightly adjudged the Player of the Match for his scintillating innings. His performance in the final became a defining moment of his career, and he received accolades from all quarters for his heroics.